Preserving with respect for residents

Renovation Freedom Road

It sounds like quite a puzzle: renovating 123 homes and making them more sustainable, while the residents simply stay at home. Yet Van Wijnen tackled this project in Haarlem with confidence. "Every step you take and every nail you hammer: everything must be done with attention and respect for the residents," says Thijs Holleman, Chief Contractor Renovation and Transformation at Van Wijnen. This sustainability project on Vrijheidsweg is all about craftsmanship and people-oriented work.

Van Wijnen combined technical ingenuity with a keen eye for residents' wishes. Commissioned by real estate investor Altera, the company renovated 123 rented homes in Haarlem to energy label A. Holleman: "We prepared for a year and a half and had to come up with creative solutions when support among residents was not immediately sufficient. Eventually we found a middle ground: yes-voters got full sustainability, no-voters only the bare necessities. Something for everyone." The project was completed to the satisfaction of the residents and Altera in Q1 of 2025.    

Occupied state challenges

The renovation included major maintenance and sustainability upgrades, such as HR+++ triple glazing, floor and roof insulation, and a wtw ventilation system. The project was carried out in occupied condition, which requires careful communication and planning. A familiar working method for Van Wijnen: "In our resident process, tenants receive a schedule six weeks in advance. And our resident supervisor conducts kitchen table discussions to make customized agreements," Holleman explains. "This personal attention works and gives residents confidence in realistic implementation according to the agreed schedule."

The social aspect plays a big role. "In a renovation like this, good contact with residents is crucial," Holleman says. "With older or needy residents, we help move furniture, for example. We also organize clean-up days, with an ice cream or French fry cart and coffee, to strengthen contact and reuse waste. For example, good furniture is saved from the dumpster and collected for recycling."

Precision work

The physical challenges on Freedom Road were no mean feat. Scaffolding in narrow gardens, drilling for ventilation systems and heavy materials in houses full of personal belongings made every day different. Holleman: "Technically it wasn't so bad, but working so close to people is different. No radio loud on, no dust clouds and always being careful not to bother anyone." This professional attitude produced tight schedules and innovative solutions. "We do sticking sessions with subcontractors to coordinate work months in advance," Holleman says. "That way we know exactly who will be working where and when each day."

Communication and respect

In addition to preservation, the homes were also thoroughly maintained. Consider new gutters, downspouts and painting. The facades were cleaned and given a dirt-repellent coating. All this while residents could continue to rely on a streamlined schedule and clear communication. "The trust of residents is our greatest pride," Holleman emphasizes. "Some even gave us their house keys. And at the end of each day, we made sure the job site was tidy again. That says everything about how important communication and respect are."

A future-proof Freedom Road

With the renovation on Vrijheidsweg, Altera is taking an important step toward sustainable, comfortable homes that are ready for the future. Holleman sums it up aptly: "Here we have not only worked on buildings, but on satisfied residents and a better neighborhood. That's what sustainability is all about."